BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a mouthwatering delight that can elevate any meal. Perfect for cozy dinners, casual gatherings, or even a quick lunch, this sandwich combines the rich flavors of BBQ chicken with the creamy goodness of melted Havarti cheese. The garlicky buttered bread adds a crispy texture that perfectly contrasts the savory filling. It’s a comfort food classic that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ chicken and Havarti cheese creates a taste sensation in every bite.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love grilled cheese, and adding BBQ chicken makes it even more appealing.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra sandwiches and reheat them for a delicious meal later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Ensure you gather everything needed for making these delightful sandwiches.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for achieving that perfect golden brown crust on your bread.
• Spatula: Helps flip your sandwiches with ease to prevent any spills while cooking.

Ingredients

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are prepared using the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small red onion, (thinly sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 12 slices Havarti cheese
• ¼ cup butter
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 2 teaspoons parsley, (minced)
• 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread

How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded roasted chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce.
2. Fold in the sautéed onions and garlic until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
2. On the non-buttered side, layer two slices of Havarti cheese.
3. Add a generous amount of BBQ chicken filling on top of the cheese.
4. Top with another two slices of Havarti cheese and cover with another slice of bread, buttered side up.

Step 4: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook until golden brown on one side, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Carefully flip using a spatula and cook until the other side is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove from skillet, slice in half if desired, and sprinkle with minced parsley for garnish.
2. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not just a meal; they can be a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to serve them to elevate your dining occasion.

Casual Dinner

• Serve with a side of crispy fries for a classic combo that everyone loves.
• Pair with coleslaw for a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the sandwich.

Picnic Delight

• Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper for easy transport and a rustic look.
• Include fresh fruit like strawberries or grapes for a sweet contrast.

Game Day Snack

• Slice the sandwiches into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing during the big game.
• Offer dipping sauces such as ranch or extra BBQ sauce on the side to enhance flavors.

Family Feast

• Serve alongside a large bowl of mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for balance.
• Set out bowls of pickles and olives to add tangy bites between sandwich bites.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

To create the ultimate BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, consider these essential tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh and high-quality chicken and cheese make all the difference in flavor.
• Add more cheese: Layering different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can enhance the creaminess.
• Control the heat: Cook on medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the bread.
• Experiment with bread types: Try brioche or ciabatta for unique textures and flavors.
• Customize your BBQ sauce: Mix in spices or honey to create a sauce that suits your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Pairing your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries add a hearty touch.
2. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that provides warmth and complements the flavors of your sandwich.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances out the richness of the sandwich.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it adds a sweet and crunchy element to your meal.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort and pairs well with BBQ flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection offer freshness and color on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Using the wrong bread: Choosing a bread that is too soft can lead to soggy sandwiches. Opt for sourdough or sturdy white bread for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use shredded roasted chicken for moist and flavorful filling.
• Skipping the garlic butter: Not using garlic butter on the bread can result in a lackluster taste. Always spread a generous layer of garlic butter for added flavor.
• Neglecting cheese distribution: Placing cheese unevenly can lead to some bites being cheesy while others are not. Ensure even cheese distribution for consistent taste in every bite.
• Not allowing the sandwich to rest: Cutting into a hot sandwich immediately can cause it to fall apart. Letting it sit for a minute helps maintain structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• item Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake sandwiches on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• item Microwave: Heat sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, but this may make them soggy.
• item Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Havarti is creamy and delicious, you can experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for varied flavors.

How do I make my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich spicier?

Add jalapeños or use spicy BBQ sauce in your filling to give your sandwich an extra kick!

Is BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich healthy?

It can be part of a balanced diet when made with lean chicken and whole-grain bread. Adjust ingredients as needed!

What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Serve with a side salad, chips, or pickles for a complete meal that complements this cheesy delight.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or plant-based chicken alternatives mixed with BBQ sauce.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses or add-ins like veggies. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors at home!